Abstract/Description

Although many root and tuber crops are considered to be poor people's crops, the consumption as well as the production of some of these crops has been increasing. Whilst yam and taro production in the Pacific has declined, according to a study by...

Notes

Although many root and tuber crops are considered to be poor people's crops, the consumption as well as the production of some of these crops has been increasing.
Whilst yam and taro production in the Pacific has declined, according to a study by the Centre for Course Grains, Pulses Roots and Tubers (CGPRT), cassava and sweet potato production has been expanding. The consumption of cassava in particular has been rising, not for use as a direct food, though this use is still predominant in rural areas, but as a processed food, a livestock feed and a raw material for industry. Cassava flour is mixed with wheat flour, or used singly for making bread and cakes, dried chips are widely used as the raw material for processed foods. Even sweet potato, once regarded as a disappearing species, now attracts increasing attention as a source of processed food such as chips, starch and liquor, particularly in countries like the Philippines. However, consumption patterns change and in many countries the Irish potato has replaced the sweet potato.
As consumption patterns change, marketing, processing and trade become important areas of research and development. These are areas in which CGPRT already has considerable knowledge and experience. However since these crops will continue to be grown by small-scale farmers it is also necessary to undertake research into farming systems, family income and the link between production and markets, to ensure that farmers benefit from the increased production.
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